Why is my Verizon phone not working?

If your Verizon phone isn’t working as it should—whether it won’t connect to data, make calls, or send texts—it can be frustrating. The reasons vary, but most problems are easy to troubleshoot.

Here’s a look at the most common issues and what you can do to fix them.

Common reasons Verizon phones stop working

• Network problems. Temporary outages or poor coverage can disrupt calls and data.
• Account or billing issues. A suspended line or past-due bill may limit service.
• SIM card errors. A loose, damaged, or missing SIM card can prevent your phone from working.
• Device settings. Features like Airplane mode, Do Not Disturb, or call forwarding can block service.
• Software issues. Outdated operating systems or app conflicts may affect performance.
• Hardware problems. A damaged antenna, battery, or other hardware failure could be the cause.

How to fix a Verizon phone that’s not working

1. Restart your phone

Rebooting can clear temporary glitches and reconnect your device to Verizon’s network.

2. Check your signal and network status

Make sure you have a strong Verizon signal. If not, move to a different location or check the Verizon network status page for outages.

3. Check settings like Airplane mode or Do Not Disturb

• On iPhone: Settings > Airplane Mode or Settings > Focus > Do Not Disturb.
• On Android: Settings > Connections > Airplane mode or Settings > Notifications > Do Not Disturb.

Turn them off if enabled.

4. Inspect your SIM card

Power down your phone, remove the SIM card, reinsert it securely, and restart.

5. Update your software

• On iPhone: Settings > General > Software Update.
• On Android: Settings > System > Software Update.

6. Reset network settings

If problems continue, reset your network settings:

• iPhone: Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone > Reset > Reset Network Settings.
• Android: Settings > General Management > Reset > Reset Network Settings.

7. Confirm your Verizon account is active

Sign in to the My Verizon app or website to make sure your account and line are in good standing.

If none of these steps work, call Verizon at *611 or 1-800-922-0204.

Other issues that may make your Verizon phone not work

• Voicemail problems. Calls may go straight to voicemail if call forwarding or Do Not Disturb is on.
• Data not working. Slow or no internet could be due to network congestion or plan limits.
• App crashes. Misbehaving apps can cause your phone to freeze or restart.

Need more tech help?

If your Verizon phone still isn’t working, Verizon Tech Coach Experts can help. They can guide you through checking settings, restoring backups, or troubleshooting apps. If you’re enrolled in eligible device protection plan, use the live chat support or call 866-686-2479.

Frequently asked questions

Why is my Verizon phone not working?

It may be due to network outages, account issues, SIM card errors, or device settings like Airplane mode.

How do I fix my Verizon phone if it won’t work?

Restart your device, check your settings, update your software, and make sure your account is active.

Why won’t my Verizon phone make calls or send texts?

Check your signal, reset your network settings, and confirm Do Not Disturb or call forwarding isn’t enabled.

Who can help if my Verizon phone still isn’t working?

Contact Verizon support at *611 or connect with a Verizon Tech Coach Expert via live chat support or call 866-686-2479, if enrolled in an eligible device protection plan.